The Dubai-based DAMAC Group, through its property development arm DAMAC Properties — one of the Middle East’s foremost luxury real estate developers — announced a contract with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group to operate a new resort on a group of private islands in The Maldives to coincide with the International Luxury Travel Market in Cannes France (ILTM).
The 34-hectare luxury resort, which is presently under construction and is set to open in 2025, will be DAMAC Group’s first venture into the tourism islands, which are famed for their premium five-star offers.
The Indian Ocean resort spans three private islands on Bolidhuffaru Reef in South Male Atoll, and is accessible by a 20-minute speedboat trip from Male’s Velana international airport.
Surrounded by the Maldives’ famous white sand beaches and bright coral reefs, the resort will provide a scenic backdrop from which visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as culinary experiences at numerous specialized restaurants throughout the island, wellness retreats, and water sports.
The Mandarin Oriental Bolidhuffaru Reef has 130 stand-alone villas, comprising 64 overwater villas and 66 beachfront villas, as well as 10 branded homes. The villas, which will range in size from 100 to 600 square meters (internal), will be among the largest on the market, offering exclusivity and isolation, as well as private pools and stunning ocean views. The Group is collaborating with a variety of foreign specialists to guarantee that best practices for sustainability are followed at all phases of development.
Guests will have access to eight eating options during their stay, including three specialty restaurants and an exclusive dining venue, as well as a pool bar.
Furthermore, inventive indoor and outdoor event spaces will create one-of-a-kind settings for meetings, social events, and weddings.
The resort’s expansive spa facilities will comprise 12 treatment suites, vitality pools, hammam, sauna, and steam rooms, as well as a beauty shop. The skilled team of wellness practitioners at Mandarin Oriental will provide personalised experiences as well as the Group’s distinctive treatments.
A water sports and dive center, a world-class kids and teens club developed by international consultants, a swimming pool, and various secluded coves and beaches will be available for exploration.
“The DAMAC brand is synonymous with luxury products and service, and we felt The Maldives was a perfect location for us. DAMAC has extended its global footprint outside of the Middle East, from the UK to Canada, and we are thrilled to have now reached The Maldives as well. We look forward to working with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group to manage our new resort on this beautiful island,” said Hussain Sajwani, Chairman and Founder of the DAMAC Group.
‘’We are continuously entering into partnerships with established world class brands that mirror DAMAC’s reputation and standards for luxury offerings and are confident that Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will excel in its mandate,” Sajwani added.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group owns and operates some of the world’s most opulent hotels, resorts, and residences. The Group has evolved from its Asian roots into a global brand, with 36 hotels and seven residences in 24 countries and territories, each reflecting the Group’s oriental background and distinct sense of place.
Mandarin Oriental is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group and has a strong pipeline of hotels and homes under development.
“Mandarin Oriental is focused on developing its resort portfolio and has been looking to enter The Maldives for some time. This project represents the right opportunity for the Group,” said James Riley, Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.
[Source: DAMAC Properties Press Release]